With Love from Harlem: A Novel of Hazel Scott

by ReShonda Tate

From The Queen of Sugar Hill author ReShonda Tate—a new novel inspired by beloved Harlem jazz performer Hazel Scott and the equal parts exhilarating and tumultuous relationship that changed the course of her life.

Harlem, 1943. At just twenty-three, Hazel Scott is a woman on fire. A jazz prodigy, a glamorous film star, and a fierce advocate for civil rights, she’s breaking barriers and refusing to play by the rules. Then Adam Clayton Powell Jr. walks into her life. Harlem’s most electrifying preacher-turned-politician, Adam is as bold and unyielding as Hazel—charismatic, powerful…and married.

This kicks off a decades-long relationship that propels them into the center of a political and cultural revolution. As Hazel’s star rises, Adam takes the national stage in Congress and the couple becomes the toast of the country. But when their affair turns into a marriage, behind the glamorous façade is a battlefield of ego, ambition, and sacrifice. Forced to choose between her music and her family, Hazel must decide what she’s willing to lose—and what she refuses to give up.

Set against the pulsing backdrop of twentieth-century Harlem and featuring icons like Billie Holiday, Langston Hughes, and James Baldwin, With Love from Harlem is a sweeping, emotionally charged romantic drama, rich with historical detail. ReShonda Tate delivers a powerful portrait of love, art, and the price of being unforgettable.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction, African American, Historical, Adult Fiction, Politics

Kindle Edition

Expected publication January 27, 2026

About the author

As the national bestselling author of more than 53 books, ReShonda Tate has the credentials, and the passion, to bring stories to life.

ReShonda writes both adult and teen fiction, as well as nonfiction. Her sophomore novel, Let the Church Say Amen, was made into a film directed by actress Regina King, and produced by TD Jakes and Queen Latifah.

ReShonda made her on-screen movie debut in the film, which was one of BET’s highest-rated programs. Her book, The Secret She Kept, was also made into a movie and aired on TV One. ReShonda made a cameo in that movie as well.

A highly sought-after motivational speaker and award-winning poet, ReShonda is the recipient of the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Literature for her book Say Amen, Again and was also nominated for her books Mama’s Boy and The Secret She Kept. She has received a plethora of distinguished awards and honors for her journalism, fiction, and poetry writing skills, including an induction into the Arkansas Black Hall of Fame and a Texas Top Author honor. Considered one of the top African-American authors in the country, her books remain a staple on Bestseller’s lists and have been featured in USA Today, The Washington Post, Jet, People, Essence, and Ebony Magazines.

Reviews

[Meekilovesbooks]

Our MFC Hazel Scott, famous jazz singer back in the 1940. This book is well written and well researched regarding this time period in Harlem. Adam Powell, a married man, Hazel and Adam fall in love and marry. Adam Powell founded the newspaper The People's Voice. Notable black people mentioned in the book are Billie Holiday, Langston Hughes, James Baldwin, and Nina Simone.

This is my second read by this author and I thoroughly enjoy her ability to bring historical fiction stories to life. 4.5 stars!!!

[Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

With Love From Harlem by Reshonda Tate is an amazing work of historical fiction about Hazel Scott. I’ve really enjoyed the historical fiction Tate has been writing, and this book is no exception. It tells the remarkable story of Hazel Scott—the wife, mother, musician, activist, and actress. I had never heard of her before, but the novel does a wonderful job bringing her to life while also shedding light on the life of her husband, Adam Clayton Powell Jr.

[Whitney Daniell · Rating 5 out of 5]

ReShonda Tate’s With Love from Harlem is a stunning tribute to Hazel Scott—a jazz and classical pianist, civil rights activist, and all-around powerhouse whose legacy has too long been overlooked. Set primarily in 1940s Harlem, the novel follows Hazel’s meteoric rise to fame, her whirlwind romance with pastor-turned-Congressman Adam Clayton Powell Jr., and the personal sacrifices she endured in the spotlight.

From her early days performing at Café Society to her historical performance at Carnegie Hall, Hazel broke barriers not only in music but also in representation, using her platform to advocate for accurate portrayals of Black people in film and television. Her marriage to Powell was passionate, complicated, and ultimately strained by ambition and infidelity. Still, Hazel’s strength, talent, and determination shine through every chapter.

Tate’s storytelling is rich, heartfelt, and full of reverence for Hazel’s legacy. The writing makes you feel like you're right there in the room with Billie Holiday, Langston Hughes, and other icons of the era. As a lover of history and stories about complex, groundbreaking women, this novel hit all the right notes for me.

This is an emotional and inspiring read—and one that I hope sparks a deeper recognition of Hazel Scott's impact. A must-read for fans of historical fiction and forgotten Black excellence.

Read my full review here: https://whitneydaniell.com/2025/07/18...

[Alisha 🦋💗 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I can't believe there was a time where I didn't think I would enjoy historical fiction at all!! Books like these truly remind me of how great they can be. I would absolutely recommend this to anyone looking to get into historical fiction!

I had never known the true story surrounding Hazel Scott prior to reading this and I am glad this is how I found her story. It literally feels like I took a step back in time and ReShonda knows how to draw you into the true history, while still entertaining you with the fictional aspects. Following Hazel's story was such a whirlwind, but impactful. She made such a difference in this world, and I am honored to have read her story.


Thank you NetGalley and William Morrow Publishing for the ARC!

[KaylaTRBG · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love historical fiction and this is my first Tate novel. The depth of research and her fictional writing were so seamless, that it felt more like a biography. The illustration of other historical figures illuminated the story, but the best part was learning about such a legendary but forgotten Black hero. If you like biographies or his fic with loads of drama, you’ll love this one.

[Tamisha booklovertamisha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hazel Scott was that girl! I never heard about her before, but this story needed to be told. Hazel Scott was an amazing musician and singer who broke barriers for many African-American musicians who came after her.
I loved reading about so many historic African American figures and their connections to each other. Hazel lived an unimaginable life while still fighting for the rights of African-Americans. her relationship with Adam Clayton Powell was unknown to me, but it helped shape who she was. I loved that she stood up for herself and didn't make herself small for anyone!

[Gabriella D (Gabbyellabooksntea) · Rating 5 out of 5]

ReShonda Tate is now one of my favorite historical fiction authors. After reading The Queen of Sugar Hill and now With Love From Harlem. I knew very little about Hazel Scott’s story. Just that she was a very talented musician that could play two piano’s simultaneously. ReShonda’s writing painted such a vivid picture of Hazel’s life. Her successes, friendships, love life, marriage & struggles. I hope you decide to pick this one up it was a fantastic read. I cant wait for the audiobook so I can enjoy it again.

Thank you NetGalley and William Morrow Publishing for the arc.

[Casey R Kelley · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC provided by the publisher. All opinions are my own.

With Love from Harlem is an absolute five star read. This is ReShonda Tate’s best book in my opinion. Hazel Scott is such a magnetic figure, and this novel brings her story to life in a way that feels rich, cinematic, and emotionally grounded. The writing is so vivid that I felt fully immersed in Harlem and Paris. The imagery is stunning. I could see the lights, hear the music, and feel the tension and beauty of every space Hazel moved through.

The book centers Hazel Scott’s complicated and tumultuous relationship with Adam Clayton Powell Jr. and let me tell you… the man was a narcissistic asshole. That tracks with every portrayal of him I have ever seen on screen or read in literature, so the characterization felt very honest. The messy parts of their relationship added texture and truth without overshadowing Hazel’s brilliance.

One of the parts that I loved most was Hazel’s friendship with Billie Holiday. Knowing how Billie’s story ends, it meant a lot to see her depicted with someone in her corner who championed her. Their relationship added a softness and a sense of sisterhood that felt beautiful on the page.

Also, can we talk about the two pianos? We have all seen clips of a woman playing two pianos at once in old montages of Black artists but I never knew who she was. I always assumed it was a random performer. Opening the book with Hazel at the two pianos gave me that instant spark of recognition. Like, ohhh… that is who this book is about. That is Hazel. That is history. And that is why books like this matter.

Historical fiction about real Black women is one of my favorite genres and always will be. So many of our stories were silenced or erased. Books like this bring those women back to the center and show how Black women have always been excellent, always been innovators, and always been trailblazers. When an author dedicates time to research and bring these stories to life, even in fictionalized form, it gives readers like me the chance to learn, question, look up the real history, and honor the women whose brilliance shaped our culture.

I have hundreds of videos on Instagram, but the best performing video I have ever posted is my list of historical fiction titles about real Black women. The video is a year old and it still gets weekly engagement. There is a real and urgent audience for stories like this. Readers want them. They seek them out. They share them. They keep them alive long after publication.

Which brings me to this part. Because this is important.

There is a significant need for Black historical fiction and a passionate community of readers begging for it. But the marketing for these books is often limited which makes it harder for them to reach the readers who want them most. I am deeply grateful that William Morrow is publishing stories like With Love from Harlem. I also hope they take a deeper look at the audience data and recognize how much readers respond to these books when they are supported. If they invest in the marketing for this story, it could easily perform as strongly as Harlem Rhapsody or The Personal Librarian. The demand is here. The engagement is here. The readers are here. They just need to know the book exists.

With Love from Harlem is powerful, captivating, and full of heart. Hazel Scott deserves this kind of spotlight. I cannot recommend this book enough.

[Denise Ruttan · Rating 4 out of 5]

"With Love from Harlem" is a gripping historical novel that shines a light and fills in the cracks of a real-life historical figure who's virtually been erased from history. I'd never heard of Hazel Scott and yet this groundbreaking civil rights leader and musical visionary rubbed elbows with other famous figures, like Nina Simone and Billie Holiday. I love how historical fiction can bring to life people who just made footnotes in the historical record.

I tend not to care for biopics because they can be heavy on infodumping and feel like reading a Wikipedia article, but this author did an excellent job at drawing me in and keeping the reader engaged. I think the author's credentials as a journalist helped with this.

The story moves through the great loves and career of Hazel Scott as she becomes a jazz star and gets swept up in the civil rights movement. I really didn't care for her first husband, Adam Powell, the smooth-talking preacher and Congressman. I took an instant dislike to him, and felt like yelling at Hazel that he didn't see them as equals and he was just a cheat who wanted to control her.

I was glad this wasn't a romance, though it had romance in it. They did have a romance even if it ended, finally, in divorce, and I can understand how Hazel was charmed by his easy confidence. I don't find arrogance attractive myself, and I saw Adam as arrogant and narcissistic instead of confident. I bristled how he put in their wedding vows that she was to obey him, how quickly he replaced her with younger women, and how he didn't listen to her and respect her wishes. It felt like a suffocating marriage after a time and I was rooting for Hazel to grow in her power and break free. This was a book about real life, about how sometimes there's romance and sometimes divorce is the happy ending.

I loved the scenes of Hazel singing, recording and interacting with the music. The love for the music really brought life to what otherwise might have been a dry historical account.

I also appreciated how Adam wasn't just a villain. He was shown as a complicated figure who did a lot for Harlem and civil rights, while sweeping Hazel into his orbit. They couldn't have done as much good as they could have if they hadn't been a couple. There was no Adam without Hazel and vice versa for a time. But Adam was also a deeply flawed figure and the story showed his dichotomy well.

I also enjoyed seeing history illuminated through Hazel's personal struggles for civil rights. She was a reluctant warrior at first, pressed into service by being a Congressman's wife, but she came into her own and became a strong, independent leader, using her voice and fighting her own battles.

I appreciated the ending with her performing at Constitution Hall, the DAR venue that had rejected her for her race years ago, which Adam had tried to book without her permission or knowledge. It was a fitting HEA of a sort to an epic love story where she didn't end up with any man. This wasn't a romance, again; romance fans would be disappointed, but it was one of those books that defies easy categorization and tropes, and blends genres.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the advance review copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Em · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading With Love From Harlem felt like sitting with a client’s life story that’s chock full of brilliance, heartbreak, personal strength and the slow return to oneself. ReShonda Tate brings Hazel Scott to the page with so much realness. We see her not just as a jazz prodigy or civil rights icon but as a Black woman (and mother) navigating love with a charismatic leader whose public shine often eclipsed the care she deserved at home.

As a therapist who uses literature to help people understand the emotional patterns in their own lives, I was really moved by Hazel’s journey toward self-love. Tate writes this line near the end: “I’ve loved, I’ve lost, and I’m better for it. What matters now is that I’ve learned to love myself.” That’s the kind of truth I see people fight their way toward in therapy every day.

I also loved how Hazel’s friendships, especially with Billie Holiday, are portrayed with depth and softness. And the way her artistry quietly shaped a young Nina Simone was rendered beautifully.

This novel is a reminder that even the most unforgettable women have tender, complicated inner worlds and that reclaiming yourself is its own revolution.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️
This was fantastic! I had never heard of Hazel Scott before this book and I am so glad that I read this.

Hazel Scott was a jazz pianist, film star, and advocated for civil rights all throughout her life! At 23 she had already made a name for herself and then in stepped Adam Clayton Powell Jr who is a pastor turned preacher and before she knows it she is wrapped up in his world.

We are following Hazels life as she is navigating her career, marriage, and eventually having a son. She made friends along the way like Billie Holiday, James Baldwin, and Nina Simone.

I felt like I had taken a step back in time. The author did a fantastic job of sharing Hazels life along with the fictional aspects. This again is why reading is so important-to remember the lives who made such a big impact.

Thank you NetGalley and William Morrow Publishing for the ARC!

[Kaliah · Rating 5 out of 5]

First, what a beautiful cover! ReShonda Tate shines a well-deserved light on an unsung jazz legend, Hazel Scott, a name I hadn’t known before this book, but won’t soon forget.

Ms Scott wasn’t just a musical prodigy; she was a social justice advocate who used her platform fearlessly, only to later fade from the spotlight, but Tate’s vivid storytelling breathes new life into Ms Scott’s dynamic story and influence. As we join her world we explore her defining relationship with Adam Clayton Powell, Jr., and her famous friendships most notably with Billie Holiday told in such a way that displays true sisterhood that grounds the story in warmth and authenticity.

With Love from Harlem is a beautifully written, emotionally rich novel that reclaims a forgotten woman’s place in history. It left me wanting to uncover more about Hazel Scott and her life, which for me makes for a great historical fiction. I highly recommend it when it releases on January 27, 2026.

Thank you to William Morris for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

[Courtney Pityer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This interesting historical fiction novel ended up being a very good read! I will admit I had to do some research on Hazel Scott as I had never heard of her before and discovered she was a Jazz singer. I also discovered she played an important role in the civil rights movement giving African Americans more equal opportunities in show business. I will say i loved how the author was able to weave in the historical information with the story.
The plot starts in 1943 when Hazel is at the beginning of her career. Along with her career she is active in the civil rights movement. One day she meets Adam Clayton Powell Jr a promising politician and falls head over heels despite the fact that he is a married man. However, the two manage to stay together and take on the world together. However, behind the glamorous life is a battle of wills that could cost them their love.
Overall this was a very exciting book to read. I for one am looking forward to the release to everyone can have the opportunity to read it. It truly is a wonderful book.
I received an arc copy from Netgalley and all opinions are of my own

[Tierra · Rating 4 out of 5]

I cannot believe I’ve never heard of Hazel Scott before this book! I’m typically drawn to Harlem Renaissance-era historical fiction, so this was such a treat. I was already familiar with many of the characters and I loved that I was able to make the connection between Hazel and the greats. I admired her commitment to equality and her career, even when it cost her opportunities. I also loved the author’s historical note at the end of the book; I wish more historical fiction novels did this. I’d definitely recommend this to fans of “Harlem Rhapsody” and the Paris chapters reminded me of “Half-Blown Rose.” I can’t wait to dig more into Hazel’s life. Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC!

[Emaleigh Nichelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ll be back later with my thoughts

[LaCricia A'ngelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you publisher William Morrow and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this phenomenal book. I was not aware of Hazel Scott prior to reading this story. The author did an awesome job of bringing Hazel to the forefront and creating a new fan of Hazel’s life and music. I recommend this book to readers that enjoy historical fiction as well as women’s fiction.

[Candy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was absolutely amazing. I’ve never heard of Hazel Scott but by the time I finished, I felt like we’re best friends. Although I know it was historical fiction, I know parts of her story were pulled from tremendous research in and you can tell she was a woman of strength and resilience. I really enjoyed this story. ReShonda Tate did an amazing job brining it to life!

[Tekira Briscoe · Rating 5 out of 5]

With Love from Harlem is a beautifully layered novel about jazz legend Hazel Scott, not just her rise to fame (because when we meet her, she’s already the Hazel Scott), but how she managed that fame while navigating love, legacy, motherhood, and public expectation. It’s about the balance (or lack of i) that comes with being a star, a wife, a mother, and a woman with a deep commitment to her community.

Hazel’s relationship with Adam Clayton Powell Jr., a powerful and complex figure in Harlem’s political scene, is central to the story. The way they moved together, against each other, and sometimes in spite of one another, was fascinating to watch unfold. It was messy, real, and deeply human.

This book pulled me in. I didn’t know much about Hazel going in, and I had never even heard of Adam before this, but now I’ve gone down the research rabbit hole because their lives were just that intriguing.

Themes like ambition vs. love, personal freedom vs. public image, and the expectations placed on Black women hit hard. I especially loved Hazel’s bold moments of resistance and the unfiltered wisdom of her mother. The line “stand in your dirt” stayed with me.

The pacing started a little slow, but once it picked up, I couldn’t stop reading. My only wish is that the later years of her marriage and her motherhood journey were explored a bit more. Still, this is a powerful read, and I’d recommend it to anyone who loves historical fiction, Black history, or stories about our unsung heroes.

ARC provided by NetGalley and William Morrow Paperbacks

[Ethel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a remarkable book. The HF story of Hazel Scott, a jazz/classical pianist, an activist, a gifted and talented Negro* musician. The story starts out in New York in 1943 where we find Hazel Scott at Cafe Society packed to a full house. The Cafe was an integrated nightclub, which is saying quite a bit for the times. Even though she was well known, New York was her home audience, and they responded in kind. It was there that she met Councilman Adam Clayton Powell Jr. While she was not looking for a relationship as he was a married man, a minister no less, there was a pulling towards each other. While she was looking to advance her stardom, he was looking to advance their togetherness. Both were activists, both took whatever criticism was given to the Negroes personally...Powell was running for Congressman of that district in Harlem. Eventually he wore her down and lived together until he divorced his first wife. However, theirs was a tumultuous marriage...Hazel was on her way up to the heights and he was fighting for his brethren in Congress. He wanted her to behave as a proper wife of a minister, while she was reaching the top of her career. Having as much as she could take from Powell, because of his often humiliation of her, both personally and publicly, Hazel managed to flee to Paris where many Negro entertainers escaped to, where there was no racism and they could be accepted for who they were, not the color of their skin.

Among her friends was Billie Holiday, another talented entertainer. Unfortunately, she was hooked on drugs, alcohol and whatever she could get her hands on. In the description of their friendship, Ms. Tate included some lyrics from the song "Strange Fruit" which had to do with black bodies hanging from popular trees. It is one of the saddest songs ever. Billie Holiday was headstrong and listened to no one when it came to drugs, so much so she was arrested at least one time. Yet Hazel was always there for her, but even so there was just so much she could do.

As I am reading this novel, I'm wondering why I've never heard of Hazel Scott. Surely, I've heard of Sarah Vaughn, Ella Fitzgerald, Lena Horne and so many more fantastic Negro artists. Where was she? I know about her now, that's for sure! Ms. Tate has written an excellent book, with many supporting characters, all well developed in her writing. This was a book, while entertaining, was also quite informative. Behind each and every one of these entertainers (even those not mentioned in this book), you can be sure of the heartache they were going through in the 40's, 50's 60's and beyond. You can only imagine what it feels like to be stabbed with criticism on a personal level, when spoken of not as a person, but by the color of their skin. Want to walk a mile in their shoes? I don't think so. But be grateful for the music they gave us and what it cost them.

This book is highly recommended. Five stars is not enough. My thanks to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

*The term Negro is what was used during the 40's, 50's 60's.

[Tahira Ahmad · Rating 4 out of 5]

August 2025
Overview & Premise
Set against the electric backdrop of Harlem in the 1940s, With Love from Harlem reimagines the life of jazz prodigy Hazel Scott—a celebrated musician, film star, and civil rights icon—and delves into her passionate and often tumultuous relationship with Adam Clayton Powell Jr., a powerful politician of the era. From their fiery courtship to their decades-long entanglement, the novel paints a richly emotional tapestry of love, ambition, and the cost of greatness. Hazel’s journey becomes not just about music and romance but also about identity, empowerment, and the choices she must confront.
Historical & Cultural Detail
ReShonda Tate weaves historical personalities—Billie Holiday, Langston Hughes, James Baldwin—into the narrative, immersing readers in the cultural heartbeat of the Harlem Renaissance. The novel doesn’t stop at name-drops; it captures the music, the aspirations, and the social battles that defined the era, rendering Scott’s story with both grandeur and grounding authenticity.
Character Depth & Emotional Stakes
Hazel Scott emerges as a formidable force—a woman who blazed her own trail in both the arts and social justice. She’s passionate, uncompromising, and profoundly human. Her marriage to Adam Clayton Powell Jr. becomes a focal point of tension: a union marked by adoration, ego, ambition, and the inevitable strains of public life and personal compromise. The dynamic offers heartbreak and triumph in equal measure
Narrative Style & Readability…this speaks volumes about Tate’s ability to engage—with prose that’s both sweeping and intimate, historic yet emotionally current. The storytelling invites immersion, reflection, and connection.
Final Thoughts - ReShonda Tate’s With Love from Harlem is poised to be a standout in historical fiction—offering a powerful portrait of a trailblazing woman who still deserves to be celebrated. If you're drawn to stories of artistry, political upheaval, and personal resilience, this one is a must-read.
Watch for its release in early 2026 and consider pre-ordering if you're eager to meet Hazel Scott’s unforgettable story head-on.
Let me know if you'd like suggestions for similar reads, discussion questions, or background on the real-life figures portrayed here!

[Jonathan Brown · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advanced reader copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review on my Goodreads page. This book is due out January 26, 2026.

ReShonda Tate follows up her historical fiction novel on Hattie McDaniel with a new work based on the life of Hazel Scott, the groundbreaking pianist, singer, and actor.

Before reading this novel, I knew nothing about Hazel Scott, and that, in itself, made the book an interesting experience. Tate brings Scott to life on the page with a vividness that feels both intimate and sweeping, capturing her brilliance as a musician and her courage as a woman who lived boldly at the intersection of race, art, and politics in mid-20th-century America. The novel also gives a window into her marriage to Congressman Adam Clayton Powell, Jr., who plays a central role in the narrative, as well as her friendships with other iconic figures of the era, such as Billie Holiday and later Quincy Jones. These cameos never feel gratuitous; instead, they add richness and context, grounding Hazel’s story within the larger cultural and political landscape.

What I especially appreciated is how much I learned while still being immersed in a story that reads like a novel rather than a textbook. Tate clearly did her research, but she also knows how to weave history and imagination into a seamless narrative. Readers who enjoyed her earlier work will find the same careful balance here—fact and fiction in conversation, each enhancing the other.

I also recommend taking the time to read the author’s note at the end, which thoughtfully explains which elements of Hazel Scott’s life are faithfully historical and which were adapted for narrative purposes. It gives the book an added layer of meaning and makes you appreciate the artistry involved in historical fiction.

Overall, I found this novel both educational and deeply engaging, a story that not only entertained me but left me eager to learn more about Hazel Scott herself. I highly recommend it to fans of historical fiction, music history, and stories of women who broke barriers against the odds.

[AshleeInPages · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Netgalley for an advanced reader copy. This is a beautifully written story about pianist Hazel Scott. While most of the other artists mentioned in the story were familiar to me, I knew nothing about Hazel prior to reading this book. It’s sad that she has been lost among the other artists of her time but I am so glad her story has been written for others to learn about her. The writing is so well done, I felt like I had been transported to Harlem and was walking alongside the characters as the story unfolded.

This story follows the life of Hazel Scott and her attempt to answer the age old question, can women truly have it all? I don’t want to minimize Hazel’s story to just that question but it is a consistent theme through all the highs and lows. I loved Hazel’s story, even when I disagreed with some of her choices. She was fierce, confident, stood on her principals and used her voice and talent as a form of resistance to racism, inequalities and injustices. Even when people in her life tried to dim her light, she still came out on top and didn’t fold. In areas where she was naive, she lived and learned only to grow and find herself and discover that the ultimate gift is to love oneself.

I loved how this story included details of Billie Holiday and James Baldwin, it made them exist in a different perspective for me. Their friendship with Hazel is such an endearing part of this whole story. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a story about self-discovery, perseverance, overcoming obstacles, loves the history and beauty of Harlem, and enjoys how a melody can both open a wound and heal it. Just read it, you will not be disappointed.

[Kiri HappySunshine · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an outstanding novel! Unlike some "historical fiction" that is simply a story set in an historical era, this leans more historical and a little less fiction, in that it fairly closely portrays the real story of Hazel Scott. Ms. Scott is an incredible 1940's-50s era musician from Harlem. Woven into the story are some significant historical names, such as Adam Clayton Powel Jnr, Billie Holiday, and Nina Simone, and we witness and experience some significant events of the time.

I just loved Hazel and her world of jazz, arts, and creativity, along with the themes of black civil rights, women's rights, and love and relationships. She is a strong woman and the friction between her and her husband was an intriguing read, especially given the era in which it was set. I listened to her music in real time as the soundtrack while reading the book, and am just blown away I hadn't known of her prior. I also loved the vibrancy with which Harlem was described, and loved learning more about Adam Clayton Powel Jnr who I vaguely knew about but had no detailed knowledge.

ReShonda Tate did a beautiful job staying pretty faithful to history while bringing this story to life. She details deviances from fact in her postscript. Every now and again I felt the book leaned a teeny bit dry and factual over emotive, but overall I found it to be sensitive and fleshed out enough that I absolutely connected with the characters and their stories. I am so grateful for having read this, highly recommend it to all reader types, and will be looking out for more by the author in future!

Thank you to William Morrow and NetGalley for the advanced reader copy of this book.

[Laura Bernheim · Rating 4 out of 5]

Historical fiction about Hazel Scott, a real life jazz pianist and activist, of whom I was shamefully mainly unaware. As with her novel about Hattie McDaniel ("The Queen of Sugar Hill"), ReShonda Tate paints a strong sense of time and pulls the curtain back on important figures of performing arts history (and American history, in general), including the injustices that women like Hazel Scott endured. I read a little about the real life Hazel Scott upon embarking on the novel and did notice multiple times when the author took some artistic liberties (mainly with dates), but she explained the reasons well in her afterward. (Something I recommend reading, especially if you choose to do more research). The only liberty that I take some issue with was the decision to have an organization apologize and make up for a real life decision, something that Tate made up, according to the afterward. While I appreciate a redemption arc in fiction, I'm not sure how comfortable I feel with one for a real life organization that didn't take those steps in real life (at least not at the time this book takes place). Other than that, I highly recommend for anyone interested in jazz history, African-American history, pop culture history from the 1940s - 1960s, or fans of Tate's previous work.
Thank-you to Netgalley and William Morrow for an advanced reader copy of this title.

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGallery and the publisher for giving me the opportunity to read this book before its release.

"With Love from Harlem" by ReShonda Tate presents Hazel Scott to us-an artist, civil rights activist and overall icon. Beginning in Harlem, 1943, we meet Hazel just as she is meeting several people that will impact her forever-Adam Clayton Powell, Jr., Nina Simone, Billie Holiday and Langston Hughes just to name a few. I typically do not gravitate towards historical fiction, but Tate’s writing hooked me. We get to witness Hazel’s rises and falls with fame; her romance with Adam; and how she chooses herself at the end. Hazel broke so many barriers in her artistry. She also used her platform to advocate for accurate portrayals of Black people in film and television. Again, an icon.

Besides Hazel’s story, Billie’s intertwining story broke me. It was so heart breaking and made me cry several times. Tate has a way of telling a story that hits you right in the feels. I also appreciate how Tate highlighted the good in Adam while also reminding us that men ain’t shit. Again, I was so happy that Hazel chooses herself at the end of the day. Do yourself a favor and give Hazel Scott a search, you won’t be disappointed.

[Emi Yoshida · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm embarrassed to admit it but reading this I thought it was a work of pure fiction. I kept wondering why Billie Holiday, James Baldwin, Langston Hughes, Thelonious Monk, Miles Davis, Quincy Jones, et al were being mentioned. At first I didn't understand why Hazel Scott, such an independent successful woman, seemed to be involved with a simple slaughterhouse worker like Lee, but then since they didn't really seem to interact much after the first couple chapters, I kind of forgot about him. But then I couldn't at all fathom why such a strong and sensible woman with a boyfriend or not, would fall for such a high-profile married and narcissistic type of man as Councilman Adam Powell Jr.

Hazel Scott seemed to embody several different personalities. As the stalwart friend and supporter of spiraling Billie Holiday, she was compassionate and principled, but then her moral compass went wonky when it came to the romance department. But I suppose that just makes her human. ReShonda Tate is a brilliant historical fiction author, and I loved the Historical Notes section at the end, which delineates which bits were historical and which are fictional. I wish i had seen PBS's documentary, The Disappearance of Miss Scott, prior to reading With Love from Harlem.

[Malika Lester · Rating 4 out of 5]

With Love From Harlem is a beautifully rendered tribute to the life and legacy of Hazel Scott a woman whose brilliance, talent, and resilience deserved exactly this kind of spotlight. ReShonda Tate delivers a rich, engaging narrative that balances historical depth with emotional resonance.

I first became aware of Hazel Scott years ago through Alicia Keys’ powerful double piano tribute. That moment sparked my curiosity, but this novel allowed me to truly connect with Hazel as a fully realized figure not just as a musician, but as a woman navigating art, fame, love, and identity during a pivotal time in history.

What I appreciated most was the seamless blend of storytelling and education. While deeply enjoyable, the book also illuminated aspects of history and culture that are often overlooked. And yes, there was even a little bit of drama woven in enough to keep things fun and compelling.

I would confidently give this novel a 4 out of 5, and I’m already recommending it to the ladies in my book club. It’s the kind of story that sparks conversation, reflection, and admiration for the unsung heroines of our past.

[Ladiami · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved how With Love from Harlem masterfully wove historical facts into fiction—it made the story feel all the more vivid and powerful. Meeting icons like Billie Holiday, Langston Hughes, and James Baldwin through Hazel’s eyes was such a highlight.

Hazel Scott completely stole my heart. Her brilliance, passion, and refusal to back down made her a character I couldn’t stop rooting for. And Adam? Let’s just say I spent most of the book giving him the side-eye. Their relationship was complicated, intense, and filled with ambition and conflict, but it was also deeply human.

This book swept me up in the rhythm of 1940s Harlem and didn’t let go. It’s an emotional, richly detailed story about art, identity, sacrifice, and what it truly means to live on your own terms. Highly recommend for fans of historical fiction centered around strong Black women and cultural icons.

Thanks Netgalley and William Morrow | William Morrow Paperbacks for the ARC and opportunity to provide an honest review.

[vlm · Rating 4 out of 5]

With Love from Harlem is a moving, richly detailed portrait of Hazel Scott—pianist, actress, activist, and a woman far ahead of her time. ReShonda Tate brings this remarkable historical figure to life with elegance and empathy, offering readers a deeply engaging blend of fact and fiction.

From the stages of Harlem to Hollywood and beyond, Hazel’s journey is one of extraordinary talent, bold conviction, and the constant struggle to balance fame, identity, and justice. Tate does an excellent job capturing the spirit of the era, while also highlighting the personal costs of breaking barriers, especially as a Black woman in mid-20th century America.

The writing is vibrant, the pacing steady, and Hazel’s voice feels clear and authentic throughout. Whether you're familiar with her legacy or learning about her for the first time, this novel paints a powerful picture of a woman who refused to be silenced.

A compelling tribute to a true trailblazer.

Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Muse for the e-ARC.

[Deb Kiley · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an eye-opening story about Hazel Scott, a multi-talented star from Harlem in the 1940s. She could play jazz on the piano like no one else, could act, and was a fierce civil rights advocate. Her story and place in history needed to be told and this book covers it all. Hazel's piano playing abilities were outstanding (I watched a video of her playing two pianos at the same time!). She broke the rules of music to play what she felt. I loved reading about her relationships with other icons, such as Billie Holiday, Langston Hughes, and James Baldwin, among several other famous names in the book. Hazel had to continually fight against what she wanted and what her husband, Adam Clayton Powell Jr., wanted. He wanted a preacher's wife as well as congressman's wife, but Hazel just couldn't diminish her star and adjust. She was a modern woman who had to forge her own path to happiness. This book encompasses the rich history of Harlem, as well as the other worlds Hazel thrived in: Hollywood and Paris.
If you are a fan of biographical fiction, Harlem Rhapsody by Victoria Christopher Murray, and The Unexpected Diva by Tiffany Warren, I strongly recommend this amazing story about Hazel Scott.
#WithLovefromHarlem #WilliamMorrowBooks #NetGalley
Thank you William Morrow Books and Net Galley for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own.